There are still five games to go until then though, starting with today’s game at Stoke City, and Town – who are seven points adrift of safety at the foot of the table – are in danger of falling too far off the pace.

“I guess that (signings) could give us a boost but it’s down to us to rectify the situation and change things,” said Everton loanee defender Pennington.

He continued: “I have to say a big thank-you to the supporters. I can understand their concerns 100 per cent, but we are thankful for the support they’ve been giving us and hopefully we can repay them with a positive result at Stoke.”

Pennington added: “I’ve never regretted the move here because I’ve been playing games and I’ve enjoyed my time here, despite the results. It’s a great club and I’ve been made to feel like part of the family here.

“It would be nice to settle down somewhere. I’m 24 now and I’ve been out on loan five times, so I guess it’s getting to the time now where I need to find a club, settle down and kick on. It could be here but I don’t know.

“It’s up to me to keep performing and playing. I don’t know what’s happening with Everton. I’ve had a phone call or two from them but nothing more than that.”